The State Government is creating more local jobs and economic opportunities locally.
More than $2 million has been distributed towards seven projects as part of round two of the Community Development Fund – to create jobs and help former forestry communities thrive long term, including to Nowa Nowa Community Development Group which will receive $573,600 to implement the Local Development Strategy, undertake a Primary Industry Value Chain Assessment, and do an audit assessment and concept plan for
local tracks and trails that could be used for adventure tourism.
The Future of Heyfield project has received $251,406 to establish a Heyfield Adventure Hub pilot. The Heyfield Traders and Tourism Association will use the funds to promote tourism in the area, deliver a 12-month calendar of events, support visitors and engage local businesses and residents.
Yarram and District Progress Association received $155,171 to deliver the Yarram Strzelecki Koala Conservation Centre and Hospital Feasibility Study, including detailed analysis on plan to establish a Koala Conservation Centre, Hospital, Education, Research and Eco-Tourism facilities.
The Swifts Creek Future project has received $100,000 to develop a structure plan for the area, which will provide a framework for future land development in Swifts Creek to increase housing supply.
“We’re helping more businesses and workers transition to new and existing industries like agriculture and tourism, proving employment and boosting the local economy,” Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said.
“Transitioning communities continue to work day-in day-out to provide a better future for their towns. These grants are supporting countless volunteer hours and input from
the community over a long period, and are another positive step forward in agriculture and tourism,” Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said.
Applications are now open for round three of the program which will make a further $5 million in funding available to eligible organisations in and around the townships of Heyfield, Yarram, Nowa Nowa, Swifts Creek and Orbost among others.
